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Lying pelvic lift

Activate your back and buttocks specifically: During the lying hip lift, lift your pelvis until your upper body and thighs form a straight line.

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Preparation

Set the highest resistance level. Fix the sled slightly below the center of the columns and attach the handle strap.

Starting Position

Lie on your back and position your feet in the handle loops. Your legs are straight, with a slight tension. Your arms are relaxed by your sides on the floor.

Execution

Press your pelvis up into the plank position until your upper body and thighs form a straight line. Maintain body tension and tighten your glute muscles. Slowly lower your pelvis back down without touching the ground. Keep your shoulders and upper body relaxed.

Muscles Used

Back
Glutes

Tip

Keep your legs close together and parallel to each other. Hold the final position for a while without arching your back.

What makes this exercise particularly effective?

The lying hip thrust (also known as the glute bridge) is an extremely effective exercise for increasing activation of the gluteus maximus. Since you are lying on your back on the floor, hip extension is emphasized, placing a high focus on the gluteal muscles , while the lower back remains relieved.

What effect does the exercise achieve?

  • Targeted glute activation: Effectively activates the gluteus maximus — ideal for strengthening and shaping.

  • Strong core and pelvic stabilization: This exercise simultaneously engages the abdominal, back, and pelvic floor muscles, promoting overall trunk stability.

  • Joint-friendly and versatile: A gentle alternative for knees and spine — suitable as an activation exercise or integrated into strength training.

  • Injury prevention: Regular practice can help reduce back and knee issues.

  • Scalability: Numerous variations are possible, e.g., single-leg, with resistance, or as a weighted glute bridge.

How does this exercise fit into the Big 5 concept?

The Big 5 include the fundamental exercises: squat, deadlift, bench press, pull-up or lat pulldown, and shoulder press. The supine hip thrust complements the Big 5 concept effectively:

  • Hip extension without vertical loading: Specifically targets the gluteal muscles, which are often underactivated during squats and similar movements.

  • Stable core foundation: Engaging the core and pelvic floor muscles supports proper technique and injury prevention during Big 5 movements.

  • Progressively adjustable: Suitable for beginners to practice technique and for advanced athletes to perform targeted strengthening.